The two men spoke over the phone today at 10:00 a.m., where, alongside the discussion about current rapidly changing conditions in the Middle East, both leaders also restated the long-standing fraternal ties that are shared between the countries of Saudi Arabia and Oman. They both expressed their wishes for a blessed Eid to each other and for peace and prosperity for their citizens, along with all Muslims globally.
In conveying his condolences to the Sultan in relation to those who lost their lives or suffered injuries as a result of various attacks around Oman, Prime Minister Sharif emphasised the need for peace, stability and constructive dialogue as the primary means of resolution to the regional crisis in question, given that such a crisis can very easily spread beyond borders. The message from both leaders was clear; the use of restraint and diplomacy continues to be the most effective path moving forward.
This phone call also demonstrates the greater level of cooperation that has developed between Pakistan and Oman over time. The respective foreign ministries from both countries pointed out that the 8th meeting on bilateral political consultations between the two countries will be held in Muscat (Oman) in August 2024, which will provide both countries a good opportunity to discuss and review the scope and depth of our bilateral relationship and, furthermore, to identify and explore new types of cooperation between us.
In addition to the standard diplomatic and etiquette issues involved in this phone call, there is a more significant regional aspect to this conversation. Historically, Pakistan and Oman have made use of their respective diplomatic channels for strengthening the cooperative relationship between both countries for political, economic and consular matters; this latest bilateral exchange also further emphasised the role that dialogue can play rather than escalating tensions. Pakistan and Oman leaders also reiterated their invitations to each other for official visits, indicating that both countries continue to be committed to maintaining communication with each other as regional tensions remain very high and cooperation remains low within the region.
